Detroit Lions position battles and roster breakdown: Running back

Depth chart prediction

Predicting the Lions’ running back depth chart for the 2017 season starts with predicting how many backs they will carry. With the offense moving away from a fullback, that leaves a roster spot from 2016 unaccounted for on the 2017 roster. The Lions could use that to carry an additional player at another position, like quarterback, or they could keep five running backs instead of the usual four plus a fullback.

I’d be inclined to say that roster spot goes elsewhere, but the Lions’ don’t have much in the way of a long-term plan at running back. Keeping an extra one at the expense of a fullback would be an easy way to maintain depth for 2017 and flexibility for the seasons beyond.

Ameer Abdullah will be back healthy to enter the season as the number one running back. Theo Riddick also returns as the nominal backup, although his greater value to the offense is in his versatility to line up outside or as a pass catcher out of the backfield rather than as a guy taking handoffs between the tackles.

After carries bounced between Zach Zenner and Dwayne Washington last season, Zenner proved the superior option and should comfortably win the third spot on the depth chart. It’s after this point that the decisions become more difficult.

That leaves Matt Asiata, Tion Green, Mike James and Dwayne Washington to battle for the last one or two roster spots. With still to prove he’s worth an extension beyond his current deal which runs through 2018 and Riddick being more of a gadget than a full time running back, it would be wise for the Lions to keep their options open. That means carrying a fifth running back in place of the recently released Michael Burton.

Dwayne Washington’s biggest contributions could come on special teams – a big plus for a guy near the bottom of the roster. That alone should be enough to hold his roster spot. I’ll pencil in Tion Green for the final spot on the Lions’ running back depth chart to give them the power element with upside for the future.

1. Ameer Abdullah
2. Theo Riddick
3. Zach Zenner
4. Dwayne Washington
5. Tion Green

Next: Breaking down the Lions' quarterback situation

What are your thoughts on the Detroit Lions’ running back position heading into the 2017 season? Let us know by leaving a comment below or connecting with us on Twitter or Facebook.